The program, themed "Jazz Hanoi - Melodies Without Borders," is led by musician Duong Cam, who serves as artistic and general director. He stated that the organizers aim to bring jazz from small clubs into public spaces, making it more accessible to urban life and the general public. His goal is to establish the festival as a multi-season event, a series of activities intrinsically linked with the city.

The event begins on 17/9 with an exhibition at the Thang Long Ca Mu Nhac Theatre, a "Woman in Jazz" event at the Vietnam Women's Museum, and a kickoff ceremony at the Nha Hat Lon Music Garden. On 18/9, attendees can participate in talks, music workshops, and the "Jazz Without Borders" concert, also held at the Nha Hat Lon Music Garden.

On the final day, the music extends to the streets, with activities on the Ho Guom walking street. The "Jazz and Heritage" festival takes place at the 22 Hang Buom Culture and Arts Center. The festival concludes with a gala at Nha Bat Giac (Ly Thai To flower garden), featuring performances that blend traditional Vietnamese music.

Musician Duong Cam at the press conference introducing the Hanoi International Jazz Festival 2026, on the afternoon of 12/8 at Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam. Photo courtesy of the organizers.

The event is expected to feature artists and bands from the US, France, South Korea, Japan, and other countries. Performers include Quyen Van Minh, singer Tan Minh, Khanh Linh, and the Longwaits Ensemble. The program is organized by the Hanoi People's Committee, the Hanoi Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Thang Long Ca Mu Nhac Theatre, in collaboration with other units.

According to Le Thi Anh Mai, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Hanoi Jazztival 2026 is designed to develop international-scale cultural events. It aims to foster the cultural industry and fulfill Hanoi's commitment as a UNESCO Creative City. She expressed hope that the festival will gradually become a distinct cultural brand, creating a significant impact in the region.

Musician Duong Cam, born in 1986, began playing piano and studying professional music at a young age. He gained widespread recognition for his song "Mong Anh Ve," which he composed at 18 years old and won an award at Vietnam Song 2005. Following this, Duong Cam made his mark with many other songs, including "Bien Va Anh Trang," "Ngay Ngo," and "Phia Cuoi Chan Troi."

He also serves as a producer and music director for numerous artistic programs and projects, such as: Do Re Mi, Sao Mai, and Music Home. In 2018, he received two Cong Hien awards for Musician of the Year and Producer of the Year.

Ha Thu